Identification of Gang Influence

This document was created to aid parents in identifying the early warning signs of street gang activities and how they impact children and the family unit. In addition, referral information has been provided to help combat the problem. This information is to be used as a guide to possible gang influence and should not be the only factors used to determine gang affiliations.

Street Gangs have been heavily influenced by prison gangs. They have now evolved, however, into their own unique identities.

One of the most prominent street gangs identified is the "Crips." They originated as a Black gang from Los Angeles, but now have crossed cultures to include Asians, Hispanics, East Indians, Samoans, Whites, etc. They are characteristically identified by the color blue which may be seen in the form of handkerchiefs, athletic jackets and hats, beads in the hair, blue fingernails, shoe strings, and graffiti.

Another identified street gang is the "Bloods" who are also known as "Piru's". Traditionally they are an opposing Black gang to the "Crips" and also originate from Los Angeles. This gang has also evolved into a cross-cultural street gang.

They are characteristically identified by the color red seen in the form of athletic apparel, including jackets, hats, shoes, etc., and red handkerchiefs.

In the Hispanic barrio culture there is a division of the State of California into North and South. The imaginary dividing line is Bakersfield. The gang north of this line is referred to as North, Norte, Norteno, or the number 14. The number 14 represents "N" the fourteenth letter of the alphabet standing for North. These gang members identify with the color red, as seen in red handkerchiefs. The gang south of Bakersfield is an opposing gang referred to as "Surenos, Sur, Southerners, or the number 13 which stands for "M" referring to the Mexican Mafia. They identify themselves with the color blue in the form of blue handkerchiefs as well as athletic apparel.

Commonly Found Graffiti

You will find graffiti almost anywhere. More specifically, you will find graffiti on books, binders, clothes, ball caps (especially under the bill), school lockers, tattoos, personal items such as cassette tapes, lighters, stereos, cars, combs, wallets, purses, walls, and fences in the area, street signs, picnic tables at the local parks, etc.

Q. If I see my son or daughter wearing colors or writing graffiti, does this mean he or she is a gang member?

A.

Not necessarily, however, it does mean that your child is being influenced by gang values. Your child may feel gang values are not necessarily wrong and may agree with some of the beliefs. You need to talk to you child and clarify any misunderstandings. It is important to help your child recognize the consequences of gang involvement.

Q. What's wrong if my son or daughter associates with gang members as long as he or she does not become an actual gang member?

A.

The problem is not necessarily association with gang members but the image our child projects to other gangs. If your son or daughter is seen with other gang members on the street, in a park, etc., other rival gangs do not and cannot differentiate your child from actual gang members. Your child may become the target for gang retaliations. In addition, members of the community, schools, and the police may also be unable to make that distinction.

Q. What's wrong with my son or daughter wearing athletic apparel - a Raider's jacket and hat, especially when I just paid $90 or more for them?

A.

The important issue is how actual gang members will perceive your child displaying recognized gang colors. There have been numerous incidents where young people were victims of robbery or assault simply because they were wearing a color identified with a particular gang. Victims have indicated they were targets because they unknowingly wore gang colors.

Q. What do I say to my son or daughter if I suspect gang involvement?

A.

Recognize the fact that your child's involvement with gangs is a serious issue. Communicate with your child the consequences of gang involvement. Your child needs limitations an accountability for what he or she does. Your children need structured activities to take the place of gang activities. You can look to organized sports, youth groups, school groups, family events, and summer jobs. Does your child have direction? Does he or she have any goals in mind? Any achievements he or she would like to accomplish? Talk to your child about his or her dreams and concerns, and give your child direction.

Q. How does my child's association with gangs effect his or her education?

A.

Most gang members don't achieve in school or graduate from high school. Gang members will also pressure their friends to accept their values such as the "tough guy attitude", which can promote confrontations. Gang values are in conflict with healthy educational goals and cause students to lose interest, underachieve, and eventually drop out of school. In short, gangs and school don't mix!

Q. How does gang involvement affect my child's education?

A.

Gang influence can cause students to feel unsafe at school. This is because of the intimidation that gangs place upon students. When students are influenced by gangs, they cannot concentrate on their education. A safe environment for learning is very important if a student is to learn. Gangs are selfish and don't respect discipline, grades, or a student's personal rights.